Visions 2018 - A Curated Exhibition Pt.1
When Visions 2018 was first announced and the organiser, Michael C. Lam, opened the floor for submissions, I wasn’t sure what images I’d submit. This would be the first time I’d be submitting my work to be exhibited as printed pieces at a gallery, and I wanted to choose images that would have a positive impact on viewers. In the end, I submitted five images of the white-chinned swifts in flight at Kaieteur National Park - the title was ‘Dance of the White-chinned Swifts’.
Not long after submitting my images, I got an email informing me that some of my images were chosen pieces to be displayed at the exhibition opening at Oxygen Arts Gallery on 1st December, 2018. The curator had only chosen 30 photos from a total of 15 photographers, and I wondered from the beginning: why only 30? I was now even more curious to see what were these choice pieces of art that were selected.
On opening day, I took a drive up to Industry to the gallery and found the place, thanks to Google Maps - a small place where people had already gathered, and were mingling outside. My first impression upon entering the space was that it was not the atmosphere where you can truly appreciate printed pieces. You see, I’ve spoiled myself visiting the Whitney Museum of Art (Manhattan), The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Manhattan), The National Gallery of Art (Washington DC), and a few other smaller galleries for photography and art. Oxygen Arts was simply too small to host this event in a way that could be fully appreciated by viewers, but I was thankful nevertheless. It had it’s benefits of feeling like a grassroots movement to further art in Guyana. It gave me hope: that even though there are many challenges, people are still willing to sacrifice their time, energy, and property to provide a space for art, and that trumps any gallery I’ve ever visited. The facts are:
Oxygen Arts agreed to host this even for free, a gesture of greatness in itself.
This exhibition is better than none at all, and a step in the right direction for the art.
It was well organised and had an awesome turnout.
It gave me perspective on how much Guyana needs to invest in the Arts and Culture.
Reinforced in my mind how much talent and potential we still have residing in Guyana, even with the economic, political, and social challenges we face.
I try to see the positive in what can initially appear negative. There was also much to learn about photography at the event. I always enjoy viewing the work of my peers because it brings the art a bit closer to home, and what we are capable of capturing right here in Guyana. The pieces that I particularly enjoyed were:
Mashramani by Fidal Bassier. There is something that speaks to your heart when you see this photo. It shouts: Guyana, Generations, Tradition, Culture, Art, Life.
Regent St. Labourer by Nikhil Ramkarran. Much to be analysed in this photo, but there is something that connects me to the hard-working people of the street. They are an important aspect of the culture and ethic of this nation.
I’ve sent in requests to purchase both of these prints.
Visions 2018, for me, is more than just an exhibition where my work has been featured for the first time; more importantly, I feel compelled to do more to further the art. Maybe play a more active role in organising and promoting events like these.
Photography may be relatively new in Guyanese society, but there are enough great works by Guyanese photographers to warrant a permanent space where people can escape to experience moments, experience the art.
Vidyaratha Kisson had his take on the event. Read about it here.